Framing
Glazing Options
When the Difference Isn’t Clear
By April Hann Lanford
Glazing Options, When the Difference Isn’t Clear
By April Hann Lanford
With the multitude of glazing options now available in the industry, selecting the right glazing can be a daunting task. There are many options available with some UV protective properties as well as standard glass with none. Framing should not only be created with aesthetics in mind, but to also protect your artwork while on view.
Here are a few questions to initially consider when reviewing glazing options for a frame:
Where will the piece be installed?
What are the lighting conditions?
What is the medium of the artwork?
Does it contain pastel, charcoal, or other friable elements?
Once completed, will be piece be transported, or shipped?
Given the nominal additional cost involved to provide the highest level of UV protection available in the industry, the following is a breakdown of attributes and considerations for the preferred glazing options available.
The preferred glazing of museums and collectors.
Versatile, and provides optimal viewing, it can be seamed for oversize pieces. With its shatter resistance, anti-static, and abrasion resistant properties, it is the ideal choice for works on loan, in public view, or items that may be transported.
Anti-Reflective -Virtually eliminates reflection in the most lighting conditions
Blocks up to 99% UV rays-helps deter fading
Anti-static surface-ideal for works that have friable media
Abrasion resistant-surface is protected against scratches
Shatter resistant-acrylic substrate that is resistant to impact and ideal for handling and transport
Considerations-When light is reflected, there is a slight cast color.
UltraVue Laminated Glass
The water white glass substrate provides crystal clear color transmission.
Anti-Reflective-Virtually eliminates reflection in the most lighting conditions. The water white glass substrate provides crystal clear color transmission.
Blocks up to 99% UV rays-helps deter fading
Abrasion resistant-surface is protected against scratches
Shatter resistant-laminated glass substrate that is resistant to impact and ideal for handling and transport
Considerations-The double layer of glass increases the weight of the sheet.
Its anti-reflective properties provide optimal viewing for smaller works at a lower price point than Optium and UltraVue.
Anti-Reflective -Virtually eliminates reflection in the most lighting conditions.
Blocks up to 99% UV rays-helps deter fading
Considerations- When light is reflected, there is a slight cast color. Not available in oversized dimensions. The glass is sensitive to impact.
Conservation Reflection Control Acrylic
The surface has a matte finish which softly diffuses reflected light.
Blocks up to 99% UV rays-helps deter fading
Non-Glare-Matte finish to soften reflection
Shatter resistant-acrylic substrate that is resistant to impact and ideal for handling and transport
Considerations-The matte finish tends to soften the image it is covering. Should not be used for depths over .25”. The acrylic surface can abrade and scratch over time. Due to inherent static charge, should not be used with friable media.
Conservation Reflection Control Glass
The surface has a matte finish which softly diffuses reflected light. Museum glass is often the preferred choice when viewed side-by-side when reflection and clarity is a concern.
Blocks up to 99% UV rays-helps deter fading
Non-Glare-Matte finish to soften reflection
Considerations: The matte finish tends to soften the image it is covering. Should not be used for depths over .25”. Not available in oversized dimensions. The glass is sensitive to impact.
UV protective clear acrylic. The standard option to protect against fading when reflection is not a concern.
Blocks up to 99% UV rays-helps deter fading
Shatter resistant-acrylic substrate that is resistant to impact and ideal for handling and transport
Considerations-The acrylic surface can abrade and scratch over time. Due to inherent static charge, should not be used with friable media.
Selecting the right glazing is as important as choosing the right frame and mat for your artwork.
When meeting with your framing specialist, remember to review samples in various lighting conditions, and discuss the potential considerations to determine which is the best fit for the project.
If you have any questions or if you would like to make an appointment, please contact us at:
312-344-0331
april@artifactservices.com
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There is a lot that goes into the design and fabrication of an archival custom frame. Whether a minimal TIG welded aluminum frame, acrylic vitrine, or a custom carved wood, 22k gilded antique revival frame, each design can have a variety of approaches and materials.
Topics are written top help familiarize our clients with the materials and techiniques that are recommended for fine framing.
Click Here to Review Helpful Information about Finsihed Corner Frames, Gilding, Welded Frames, Specialty Glass and Acrylic, Archival and Museum Quality Framing.
Additional Reading
Examinations, condition reports, and related cost estimates
can be completed at one of our studios, online or onsite
Call or email us today to work with us on your project
At Our Studios
Clients are welcome to make an appointment to drop off items at one of our studio locations for an estimate.
Upon completion of the assessment, we will follow up with a written condition report and treatment proposal for your approval.
Custom framing appointments can also be made at any of locations.
To schedule an appointment please feel welcome to email, call, or submit an inquiry via through our form at the bottom of the page.
Online
We also welcome inquiries through email.
If you have questions about a general treatment or need an approximate cost for a project, you can send images and information about your piece. When possible please include the following information:
Title, Artist, Medium, and Size
Condition Observations and Concerns
Images of the front and back, with any details.
We will call you to follow up and gather any further pertinent information.
Onsite
Clients are welcome to make an appointment to drop off items at one of our studio locations for an estimate.
Upon completion of the assessment, we will follow up with a written condition report and treatment proposal for your approval.
Custom framing appointments can also be made at any of locations.
To schedule an appointment please feel welcome to email, call, or submit an inquiry via through our form at the bottom of the page.
Contact
Get In touch
april@artifactservices.com
(312) 344-0331
Main Location: 840 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Chicago, IL 60642
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Sat: 10am-2pm
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